Training midwives in the insertion of the contraceptive implant to increase uptake in the immediate postpartum period: a feasibility pilot study

Research status

In progress

Overview of Study

Australia has a relatively high rate of unintended pregnancy. Women may be particularly susceptible to unintended pregnancies in the 12 months after giving birth, partially due to difficulty accessing contraception. It is therefore essential that there be minimal barriers to accessing effective contraception in the postpartum period, including long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC). LARC methods (including the implant and intrauterine devices) are the most effective at preventing unintended pregnancies.

This investigator-initiated study being led by Family Planning NSW aims to determine whether midwives can contribute to the insertion of Implanon NXT in the hospital setting in the immediate postpartum period. The progestogen implant, Implanon NXT®, is the LARC method chosen for this study due to its proven suitability in the immediate postpartum period, high acceptability, broad medical eligibility, and relative ease of clinician training. Participating midwives from Canterbury Hospital and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital will be provided with training on contraceptive counselling, Implant insertion and implementation in the postpartum setting.

(This research project has been approved by the Family Planning NSW Ethics Committee; approval number R2018-05)

Partners

Sydney Local Health District

MSD

Contact Details

If you would like more information, please contact:

Research Centre (FPNSW): researchcentre@fpnsw.org.au